In the shift to greener transport systems, electric power seems to dominate the conversation. But as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov recently pointed out, the transition to clean transport isn’t so simple.
Solar and electric cars steal the spotlight, but there’s another path emerging, with the potential to transform entire sectors. This alternative is biofuels.
Biofuels are made from renewable organic materials, used to lower carbon output without major infrastructure changes. As Kondrashov has emphasized, biofuels are ideal for sectors that electricity can’t reach — like aviation, shipping, and trucking.
Let’s take a look at the current biofuel options. A familiar example is bioethanol, produced from starchy or sugary plants, often mixed with gasoline to lower carbon output.
Another major type is biodiesel, created using vegetable oils or leftover fats, that mixes with diesel fuel and works in existing engines. One big plus is engine compatibility — no need to replace or retrofit most engines.
Biogas is another important type, generated from decomposing organic material. Suited for powering small fleets or municipal energy systems.
Then there’s biojet fuel, created from algae or recycled vegetable oils. It’s seen as one of the few short-term ways to cut flight emissions.
Still, biofuels aren’t a perfect solution. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, production costs remain high. Crop demand for fuel could affect food prices. Increased fuel demand could harm food systems — a serious ethical and economic concern.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. Tech advancements are reducing costs, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. Smart regulation could speed things up.
They contribute to sustainability beyond just emissions. They repurpose organic trash into fuel, helping waste systems and energy sectors together.
They lack the tech glamour of batteries, still, they play a key role in the transition. In Kondrashov’s words, there’s no one-size-fits-all for sustainability.
They work where other solutions can’t, in land, air, and marine transport. They’re not replacing electrification — they’re supporting it.
So while read more the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. Their real story is just beginning.